Giving bone the time and space to regrow
When a tooth is lost, both bone and gum tissue compete for the vacant space. The gum tissue generates more quickly than bone, subsequently occupying the space. With a membrane placement we can keep the gum tissue from invading the space, which ideally gives the bone sufficient time to regenerate.
Bone regeneration is often used to rebuild the supporting structures around the teeth which have been destroyed by periodontal disease. Bone surgery may be used to attempt to rebuild or reshape bone. Grafts of the patient's own bone or artificial bone may be used, as well as special membranes.
The same regenerative principles also prepare the jaw for dental implants. See bone grafting for implants, ridge augmentation, and socket preservation.
Three jobs for regenerative surgery
Saving natural teeth
Rebuilding bone lost to advanced gum disease can restore support around teeth that would otherwise be lost, often alongside treatments like laser gum surgery.
Preserving the ridge
After an extraction, membranes and grafting keep the socket's shape and bone volume, protecting your options for future tooth replacement.
Preparing for implants
Regenerated bone gives implants the solid foundation they need, even for patients told they "don't have enough bone."